(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Ellen DeGeneres has joked she called for help after having chest pains because she likes to see a fireman "occasionally".

The talk show host summoned paramedics to the Warner Bros. lot where her programme is filmed on Monday after feeling ill. She'd experienced chest pains the night before too, so thought it was best to get checked out.

However, the star didn't expect emergency services to send out several fire trucks and ambulances. After she was deemed healthy, Ellen took to the stage for her talk show and explained what had happened.

"You know, I like to tell you what's going on in my life. So today, I will tell you what's going on in my life because [gossip website] TMZ is also telling you what's going on in my life," she laughed.

"What happened was last night I was having chest pains. So this morning the paramedics came to look at me. First of all, I'm fine.

"I got to work and it was still happening. I was still feeling the pains, so I was like, You know, I should check this out. It's better to be safe than sorry.' Who doesn't want to see a fireman occasionally?"

The 53-year-old joked the help she received was "one marching band short of a parade", although she was keen to praise the medical professionals who came to her aid.

She spoke of how much she appreciates the work they do and again assured the audience that she is perfectly healthy.

The episode in which Ellen discusses her health will be aired in America today. It's not thought that the incident will interfere with her shooting schedule. (C) Cover Media